RECENT BLOG POSTS
According to the latest Beracha, Hardin & Johnson Buy vs. Rent (BH&J) Index homeownership is a better way to produce greater wealth, on average, than renting. The BH&J Index is a quarterly report that attempts to answer the question:Is it better to rent or buy a home in today’s housing market?The...
03/08/2016
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) released their latest Quarterly Metro Home Price report earlier this month. The report revealed that home prices are not only continuing to rise but that the increases are accelerating. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, discussed the impact of low in...
02/27/2016
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Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales rose to an annual rate of 5.47 million, representing an 11% increase year-over-year. Inventory levels remain below the 6-month supply needed for a normal market at a 4.0-month supply. Lawrence Yun, NAR's Chief Economist, warns: "The spring buying season is ri...
02/26/2016
It's common knowledge that most people are advised to get their home on the real estate market in late spring or early summer as that is 'real estate season.' While the majority of homes do sell in the spring and summer, listing your home or looking for a home during the holidays or in the winter...
10/27/2015
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If you've never owned your own property before, there are some costs you should prepare yourself for ahead of time. Should you take out a mortgage, you'll have your monthly mortgage payment, but often there are additional costs and fees added that a new homeowner will not expect. Listed below are...
09/29/2015
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The list of new responsibilities can seem overwhelming when you buy a home or become a first-time homeowner. One responsibility that tends to get overlooked until it becomes a larger issue is that of household pests. A household pest is "a destructive insect or other animal that attacks" your hom...
03/07/2015
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With the start of a new year, it's always a good idea to assess your home and its needs. Taking stock of appliances, home systems, and other items that make a house a home will help guide you to home improvements needed, appliances that may be near the end of their lives, and any other updates th...
12/25/2014
If you're considering buying or selling a home, selecting a real estate agent is the first important decision you will have to make. While there are many qualified real estate agents out there, it's important to decide on a professional who will understand your needs and individual preferences, s...
11/28/2014
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Everyone wants their home to be safe and free from dangers. Some of the most common items and appliances in a home can be harbingers of hazards, and knowing what to be wary of will help you prevent any unforeseen issues down the road. Listed below are the top areas in a home that can potentially ...
11/25/2014
In a recent Pittsburgh Tribune newspaper article it was mentioned that the "Pennsylvania college graduates continue to bear some of the highest average student debt levels in the nation." Worse news could not come at such an important time, at least in the Pittsburgh Region when it comes to home...
11/13/2014